As the Las Vegas Raiders wrap up a season that will see them miss the playoffs, all eyes are already on the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft. Despite a late-season surge that moved the team’s draft position from No. 2 overall to No. 8, the Raiders have made it clear they are planning for a future at quarterback—though their strategy may not involve a top pick after all.
According to multiple sources, the Raiders have adjusted their approach to the draft and are now focusing on landing Washington State quarterback Cam Ward in the second round. The Raiders’ top brass, led by General Manager Tom Telesco, believe that Ward, while not a first-round selection, represents the ideal mix of raw talent and developmental potential.
Cam Ward: A Rising Star with Immense Upside
Ward, who has impressed scouts with his dynamic playmaking ability and strong arm at Washington State, is seen as a quarterback with immense upside. Though not as polished as Shedeur Sanders from Colorado, Ward’s potential to grow under the right coaching staff has the Raiders intrigued. Ward’s ability to make plays outside the pocket, coupled with his natural athleticism, could make him a high-upside pick for the Raiders if he can refine his mechanics and decision-making at the next level.
The Raiders were initially linked to Sanders in the first round, but with Sanders now likely to go off the board early, the focus has shifted to securing a quarterback like Ward who could potentially be available in the second round. Sources close to the organization have indicated that the Raiders will prioritize other needs in the first round, potentially bypassing a quarterback selection until later in the draft.
What’s Next for the Raiders in the 2025 NFL Draft?
Despite not landing the coveted No. 2 pick, the Raiders still have options at No. 8 and beyond. With their second-highest cap space in the league, the team has the flexibility to address short-term needs through free agency, allowing them to focus on long-term solutions in the draft.
The Raiders are still eyeing several positions to shore up their roster. Defensive line is a top priority, with talented prospects like Michigan’s Mason Graham—who posted 3.5 sacks and 7 tackles for loss last season—potentially available. The Raiders could add a game-changer to their front seven if Graham falls to them.
Wide receiver is another area of concern for the Raiders. The team could look to add a No. 1 receiver in the draft, with names like Arizona’s Tetairoa McMillan and Missouri’s Luther Burden III being linked to the Raiders as possible first-round selections.
However, with their focus now on landing Cam Ward in the second round, the Raiders may choose to address other key positions in the first round, like linebacker or defensive line, depending on how the draft unfolds.
The Road Ahead: Building for the Future
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the Raiders’ front office is preparing for a critical offseason that will shape the future of the franchise. While landing a quarterback remains a priority, the Raiders are looking at a wider strategy that involves addressing multiple areas of need, including defensive help, a potential No. 1 receiver, and further strengthening their offensive line.
Whether they manage to secure Cam Ward in the second round or shift their focus to another quarterback in later rounds, the Raiders are committed to building a balanced roster. This draft could be the key to setting the Raiders up for a future playoff push, and it will be fascinating to see how their strategy plays out on draft day.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Raiders’ 2025 NFL Draft plans continue to unfold.
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